What is the outcome of failing to resolve conflicts in Erikson's stages according to his theory?

In Erikson's psychosocial development theory, each stage presents a conflict or challenge that individuals must navigate to develop essential psychological skills. When conflicts remain unresolved, it leads to difficulties that can manifest later in life. These unresolved issues can hinder personal growth and affect relationships, self-image, and coping strategies.

For example, if someone fails to successfully navigate the stage of trust versus mistrust, they may struggle with feelings of trust in relationships throughout their life. Similarly, failure in later stages can result in feelings of inadequacy, isolation, or confusion regarding one's identity.

The concept of difficulty later in life highlights the long-lasting impact unresolved conflicts can have on an individual’s ability to form healthy relationships, achieve personal goals, and maintain a positive self-esteem. Hence, the recognition of unresolved conflicts in Erikson's theory emphasizes their importance in fostering well-being and personal development.